Introvert burnout occurs when your energy is being depleted faster than you have time to recharge. And sadly it can happen without you even realising it.
Imagine this scenario. You work at a bar. You spend all day serving customers, initiating conversations, chatting with your colleagues, and all that the day demands of you… The week goes by. You get invited to go to a barbecue. So, of course, you spend all afternoon turned to evening socialising with friends and family. By the time you get home, you crash on your bed. You are absolutely drained.
Does this sound similar to you?
You are not alone!
As introverts, we tend to thrive best in calm environments with minimal interactions. So when we are GO GO GO all week, it takes us out completely.
This can have you feeling:
• Grumpy and irritable after a demanding day
• Feeling drained and exhausted
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood swings
The good news is that there are small changes you can make that can help you immensely.
What You Can Do It
• Prioritize Alone Time
Choose some time out of your day to be alone. Sometimes the only way to do this is by making it intentional. For some, it will be early in the morning, and for others it will be later in the evening.
This way, whether or not you have a socially demanding day, you can have that time to recharge.
• Set Boundaries
Learn to say NO. Yes… easier said than done, although it will help with not over-promising when you know that it is not possible.
• Reduce Daily Stimulation
Shape your environment to support you, rather than forcing yourself to adapt to everything around you. For example, I use headphones to block out background noise, which helps me focus and feel less overwhelmed.
• Stop Fighting Against It
It’s okay to not enjoy crowded, loud spaces. It’s okay to feel exhausted after being social. It’s okay to be how you are and feel the way you do.
I hope from here on out you can make the right choices that work for you and not against you. Embrace your introversion. Go easy on yourself and find the time to reflect on how far you’ve come. Trust me, future you is already thanking you!